Asparagus and Prosciutto Tart

Name: Asparagus and Prosciutto Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed; 8 slices prosciutto; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making this Asparagus and Prosciutto Tart. It combines the crispness of fresh asparagus with the savory depth of prosciutto, all nestled in a flaky pastry. The blend of flavors creates a delightful bite that’s perfect for brunch or a light dinner. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it still feels elegant enough to impress guests. This tart has become a go-to for me whenever I want to showcase seasonal ingredients in a simple yet sophisticated dish.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:04:18.327Z

Making the Asparagus and Prosciutto Tart was a delightful experience. The key to this dish is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. I spent a little extra time at the farmers' market picking out vibrant asparagus and thin slices of prosciutto. This little effort made a big difference in the final dish.

When baking, I recommend keeping an eye on the tart as every oven seems to have its quirks. I found that baking it until the edges are golden brown gives the crust a lovely crunch that truly elevates this dish. It’s one of those recipes that I love sharing with friends!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of savory and fresh flavors.
Easy to prepare yet visually striking for gatherings.
Delicious warm or at room temperature, making it versatile.

      

Perfecting the Puff Pastry

The puff pastry is the foundation of this tart, providing a light and flaky base. Make sure to roll it out evenly to prevent uneven baking. If your pastry becomes too warm while handling, pop it back into the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to regain its shape. This will help it maintain those beautiful layers that puff up during baking and give you that irresistible crunch.

When fitting the pastry into your tart pan, take care not to stretch it excessively, as this can lead to shrinkage during baking. If you have any excess pastry hanging over the edges, trim it to avoid burning. Press the sides firmly, and prick the base with a fork to prevent it from puffing up too much. This technique can keep the interior creamy and your crust perfectly crisp.

Cheese Filling Considerations

The combination of ricotta and Parmesan in your cheese filling adds both creaminess and depth of flavor to the tart. Ricotta gives a soft texture and mild taste, while the grated Parmesan introduces a nutty, sharp contrast. For a twist, consider substituting the ricotta with goat cheese for a tangy flavor or using a dairy-free ricotta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Make sure to mix the filling until it is completely smooth to ensure an even distribution of flavors throughout the tart. If your cheese filling seems too thick, a tablespoon of milk can help achieve a spreadable consistency. A well-mixed filling will yield a more cohesive taste and texture as it bakes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

For the Tart

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
8 slices prosciutto
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare the tart:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Puff Pastry

On a floured surface, roll out the puff pastry and fit it into a tart pan. Trim the edges as necessary.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Tart

Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pastry. Layer with prosciutto and arrange the asparagus on top.

Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and asparagus is tender.

Serve

Allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delightful tart with a green salad or as an appetizer!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs like thyme or basil on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Asparagus and Prosciutto Tart is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For brunch, consider pairing it with fresh citrusy salads or a side of seasoned cherry tomatoes for a refreshing contrast. If serving as a light dinner, a crisp arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the savory tart beautifully.

Leftover tart can be enjoyed cold the next day, making it a great option for lunchboxes. It also pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine, enhancing the flavors of the prosciutto and asparagus. I often find that adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or dill just before serving, brightens the overall flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers, store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to consume it within the first day. The crust may lose its crunch if stored too long; reheating can help restore some flakiness. Simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the tart for about 10-15 minutes.

You can also freeze portions of the tart before baking. Assemble the tart and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, remove from the freezer, and let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight before baking straight from there. This is a perfect way to have a ready-to-bake dish on hand for unexpected guests!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, but fresh asparagus is recommended for the best flavor and texture.

→ How can I make this tart vegetarian?

You can omit the prosciutto and add other veggies like mushrooms orbell peppers.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the tart up to the baking step, refrigerate, and bake it fresh right before serving.